Terri Hickey

Why jewelry? OK, well, I will tell you…I admit it; I love jewelry and always have. I will even confess that I have planned an entire outfit around one special piece. Growing up with a mother who was an art teacher, I can distinctly remember rummaging through my Mom’s art supplies, hoping to find something that would turn into a necklace or bracelet. After receiving a B.A. in Fashion Marketing and Design from the University of Illinois, I worked for many years in the “fashion world” where jewelry and accessories are always prominent. So, in 2008, I gave in to my passion and began taking classes, working exclusively with fine silver. My experiences with fine silver led me into more traditional forms of metalsmithing, working with sterling silver and copper, dichroic glass, enamels and the age-old art of chain maille. And that right there, I believe, is the reason that I love handcrafting jewelry as much as I love wearing it. Designing and creating jewelry allows me to use more than just my drawing skills. It allows me to create in several unique medium. Designing and planning a piece obviously satisfies my love of drawing and design, and metals allow me to see the three dimensions of my design come to life. The engineering behind a piece and the problem solving to get the final piece to work (i.e., hinges, angles, bails, etc.) are a challenge for me that I take great delight in conquering. And finally, I am fascinated with glass. The properties and the colors enamor me. Being able to incorporate glass into my jewelry designs is the ultimate thrill for me. Jewelry design is the complete package when it comes to satisfying my creative soul. The inspiration behind my jewelry designs comes from an appreciation of sophisticated, clean lines, with minimal frill and maximum impact; streamlined and contemporary, but never boring. Just as my business’ name implies, classic, but with a little twist. I truly hope you enjoy wearing my original designs as much as I have enjoyed creating them.